Ankara
In a highly anticipated press conference, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties between Turkey and Somalia, emphasizing Turkey’s unwavering support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and development efforts.
Erdogan Condemns Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu
President Erdogan strongly condemned recent actions by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that:
“We defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Somali people. We will not allow any interference from Netanyahu. This is a violation. Benjamin has killed 70,000 Palestinians and attacked seven countries in the Islamic world. This is an outright violation.”
“Countries in the region have clearly expressed their rejection of Netanyahu’s ambitions. I discussed with President Trump the need to prevent actions that harm the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia, which is unacceptable.”
Addressing the status of Somaliland,
Erdogan emphasized and said “Somaliland is part of the Somali people. We will continue to support Somalia’s sovereignty without hesitation. Fellow Somalis, we are with you.”
“Recognition of Somaliland is illegal. We stand with Somalia and support it. Defending Somalia’s unity is a firm decision for Turkey. Netanyahu’s declaration will not succeed and does not change the truth about Somalia’s territorial unity.” He continued.
Somalia’s Oil Exploration and Development
President Erdogan also highlighted progress in Somalia’s oil exploration, stating: “In the past nine months, we have explored oil along Somalia’s coasts, covering an area of 4,465 square miles. We are very hopeful that by 2026 we will see the realization of the great ambition for the Somali people to access their resources.”
He added:
“This is a great joy for both nations. We will send essential materials and equipment, which will mark the beginning of oil production in Somalia.”
Support for Somalia’s Democratic Processes
On Somalia’s democratic journey, Erdogan said: “We welcome the elections in Mogadishu. It is a great joy for us.”
He also reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to Somali sovereignty and resource management:
“We are committed to strengthening Somalia’s sovereignty and oppose anyone who violates it. By 2026, Somalia will benefit from its resources, and we are ready to assist the Somali people in achieving this.” Erdogan added:
“We want to eliminate terrorism from Somalia.”
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Speaks on Turkey’s Support
President Mohamud acknowledged Turkey’s support during Somalia’s critical challenges: “At this time, Somalia faces threats to its territorial unity and sovereignty. We clearly feel the support of Turkey and the Turkish people.” He also noted: “Turkey has mediated Somali-Somaliland issues for years and has worked to resolve them peacefully through dialogue. Significant progress has been made in many areas.”
Mohamud praised Erdogan’s renewed commitment:
“Today, President Erdogan reaffirmed that Turkey stands with Somalia and that this support will continue.”
Condemnation of Netanyahu and Defense of Somalia’s Sovereignty
Both leaders condemned Netanyahu’s actions, emphasizing the importance of international law and Somalia’s sovereignty:
“The aggressive stance of Netanyahu,which affects Somalia, is unacceptable. This stance violates international law. Protecting territorial unity and sovereignty is a fundamental value that underpins all international systems.”
Erdogan concluded:
“Decisions about the future of the Federal Republic of Somalia and Somaliland must reflect the will of all Somali people. We will continue to genuinely support Somalia’s territorial and political unity and stand by the Somali people throughout this process.”
The press conference highlighted Turkey’s unwavering commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty, democratic development, and natural resource management. Both leaders emphasized the rejection of external interference, the importance of regional solidarity, and the continuation of close cooperation between Somalia and Turkey.